It is a special time for all of us in America. The spirit of Thanksgiving instills a warm and fuzzy feeling within us.

Happy Thanksgiving to you and your families. God Bless America!

-- Marlene Jeziorski, Oak Lawn

Remain grateful

How many Americans pause to appreciate the origins of Thanksgiving? When they contemplate it at all, their initial thoughts might turn to the Pilgrims at Plymouth Plantation and the Native Americans known as the Wamponoag -- not that this is misplaced, even though some claims are made for a celebration of Thanksgiving in 1565 at St. Augustine, Fla.

But it was President Abraham Lincoln, acting on Oct. 3, 1863, who officially proclaimed that the last Thursday in November would forever constitute our national holiday known as Thanksgiving.

Some might contend as we celebrate our Thanksgiving in 2008 that it is in a time of immense challenge for our nation. That is undeniable.

Yet Lincoln offered himself as a man of willful optimism amid the immense tribulations encountered during his presidency.

Today the people of the United States, faced with their own trials, still should find reasons to express their thankfulness.

Find your own moment and reflect. In the spirit of Abraham Lincoln, we have reason to remain grateful.